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MIL-OSI USA: Ernst Names Small Business of the Week, Salvaged Designs

US Senate News:

Source: United States Senator Joni Ernst (R-IA)

RED OAK, Iowa – U.S. Senator Joni Ernst (R-Iowa), Ranking Member of the Senate Small Business Committee, today announced her Small Business of the Week: Salvaged Designs of Mahaska County. Throughout this Congress, Ranking Member Ernst plans to recognize a small business in every one of Iowa’s 99 counties.
“Transforming the old into the extraordinary, Salvaged Designs breathes new life into forgotten treasures,” said Ranking Member Ernst. “By repurposing old furniture, instruments, and other miscellaneous items, Jen has created a perfect balance between sustainability and style in the Oskaloosa community.”
Throughout Jennifer Thomas-Maxwell’s childhood, she worked at her family’s waste management business, sparking a lifelong passion for sustainability. In college, she studied graphic design. As a mother, Jen crafted homemade gifts and Halloween costumes that gained popularity among classmates and parents in the neighborhood. Her unique, repurposed creations turned into Salvaged Designs and in 2016, Jen opened the doors of her first store. In 2020, Jen moved her business to Oskaloosa’s Main Street. Today, Salvaged Designs sells repurposed furniture, band instruments, and a variety of Iowa and Midwest-made products that focus on sustainability. This year, Salvaged Designs will celebrate its eighth anniversary.
Stay tuned as Ranking Member Ernst recognizes more Iowa small businesses across the state with her Small Business of the Week award.

MIL OSI USA News –

January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Manning Surveys Hurricane Helene Damage, Meets with Survivors

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Kathy Manning (NC-06)

Asheville, NC – Today, Congresswoman Kathy Manning (NC-06) traveled to western North Carolina where she was joined by Small Business Administration (SBA) Administrator Isabel Guzman and Asheville Mayor Esther Manheimer to view the devastation caused by Hurricane Helene and the extensive response efforts underway. They listened to business owners discuss the challenges they face and explained how federal resources can aid in the recovery and rebuilding of affected communities.

Congresswoman Manning visited the historic Biltmore Village, where two-story high flood waters destroyed shops and restaurants and left layers of thick mud, and the recently renovated River Arts District, where the storm tore buildings apart and decimated breweries, artists’ studios, and collaborative galleries. Manning spoke with small business owners who are deeply concerned that their businesses will be closed during the peak tourism season. She also visited a local SBA help center, where business owners are receiving assistance with completing their SBA applications for disaster aid.

“The devastation caused by the storm is heartbreaking. Over 80% of Asheville remains without water and power, yet the resilience of the people I met is remarkable. I was also impressed by the knowledgeable team from the SBA and am grateful for Administrator Guzman’s clear explanation of the available funds for affected areas and how the Biden-Harris Administration has streamlined the relief process, ensuring that aid reaches people more quickly. We are fortunate to have such dedicated emergency relief workers,” said Congresswoman Kathy Manning. “Based on our discussions, it is clear that more funding is needed for the disaster relief effort. Congress must ensure that affected communities receive the resources needed for recovery and rebuilding, both now and in the months to come. I stand ready to return to Washington without delay to advocate for the people and communities impacted by this unprecedented storm.”

On September 29, 2024, President Biden granted Governor Cooper’s request for a Federal Major Disaster Declaration for Hurricane Helene to provide immediate federal assistance to North Carolinians in designated disaster areas.

Federal, state, and local partners are actively collaborating to mobilize resources into western North Carolina. These response efforts include search and rescue operations, wellness checks, the delivery of essential supplies such as food and water, removing debris to clear roads and bridges, restoring critical services like water, sewer, and electricity, and conducting damage assessments.

President Biden has directed the Department of Defense to deploy 1,500 active-duty troops to support North Carolina’s 2,800 active-duty National Guardsman responding to the disaster. This deployment is in addition to the more than 7,000 federal personnel currently assisting with response efforts across all affected areas.

For the latest updates on relief efforts, open shelters, and more, visit the North Carolina Department of Public Safety’s website here.

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The Office of Congresswoman Kathy Manning stands ready to assist North Carolinians impacted by Hurricane Helene. Find critical resources and updates to assist those affected by the storm here.

MIL OSI USA News –

January 23, 2025
MIL-Evening Report: Canadian urban mobility is woefully lacking, but building a better future is still possible

Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Betsy Donald, Professor, Department of Geography and Planning, Queen’s University, Ontario

Canadian cities are falling behind globally when it comes to efficiently moving people. Long commute times, high congestion rates and infrastructure that is vulnerable to climate change are symptoms of a mobility crisis.

Mobility is an essential public good, and modern policies aim to move people in a safe, efficient, accessible and non-polluting way. However, the COVID-19 pandemic exposed and worsened existing vulnerabilities in Canada’s urban mobility systems, undermining progress toward these goals.

Our new book, Urban Mobility: How the iPhone, COVID, and Climate Changed Everything, explores how technology, the pandemic and climate change have shaped, and continue to shape, urban mobility, particularly for those with inadequate transportation networks.

Population growth outpacing transit

One of the primary challenges Canadian cities face is that they have grown faster than their sustainable transportation options. While urban populations have expanded, investment in public transportation has not kept pace, resulting in a gap between capacity and potential.

The COVID-19 pandemic also impacted city life in profound ways, and urban life and economies in Canada are still being affected to this day. Remote work became the norm for many, reducing the number of people commuting and causing a significant drop in public transit ridership.

Additionally, the shift to hybrid work has permanently altered how Canadians engage with their cities. People are shopping online more, using public transit less, and central business districts and physical retail spaces are seeing less foot traffic.

Urban economies, which have been designed to rely heavily on the movement and presence of large numbers of people through public transit and local businesses, are still grappling with this new reality. Activity levels, for instance, are down by about 20 per cent from pre-pandemic levels in many downtown spaces still.

Tech platforms and mobility

Digital platform firms like Zoom, Uber, Amazon and Instacart adapted quickly during the pandemic, offering safe work-from-home options, private transportation and online shopping services to people. These platforms disrupted the traditional urban economic model, which relies on transit, physical stores and foot traffic.

Ride-hailing services drew passengers and their fares away from local economies into foreign-owned ride-hailing companies. Transit systems not only depend on the massive built public infrastructure, but also passenger fares and other government funding to maintain the public system over time.

In addition, these tech platform companies come with equity and accessibility concerns. Research on the use of ride-hailing and public transit during the pandemic found that its usage in Toronto was clearly organized along class, neighbourhood and social lines. People identifying as one or more of the following were more likely to continue riding transit during the pandemic: low-income, immigrant, racialized, essential workers and car-less, in large part because other options were not available to them.

Similarly, in Calgary, private technology experiments in electric scooters privileged wealthier neighbourhoods. Electric scooters were used more in wealthier neighbourhoods, and as poverty levels increased at the neighbourhood level, the use of them dropped. The researchers concluded that greater attention needs to be paid to ensuring all communities, regardless of economic status, have access to micro-mobility options.

Canada has a history of importing technological solutions, rather than creating its own. Montréal, however, offers a successful example with its Bixi bike program, the third largest bike share system in North America after New York and Chicago, with 11,000 bikes and almost 900 stations. A non-profit runs the program, Rio Tinto Alcan provides aluminum for the bikes and Cycles Devinci manufactures them in Saguenay-Lac-Saint-Jean.

Canadian cities need to build innovation opportunities that promote economic development and improve mobility at the same time. Canada’s technology sector is woefully undersupported at present.

Bixi bikes stand on Sainte-Catherine Street in Montréal in August 2019. The City of Montréal bought the bike sharing system in 2014 and created a non-profit entity to run the bike sharing operations.
(Shutterstock)

Climate crisis intensifying challenges

The third, and perhaps most pressing challenge facing Canadian cities is the growing climate crisis. Cities are both instigators and victims of climate change. They contribute significantly to greenhouse gas emissions, but are also heavily impacted by severe weather events, heat waves and other side effects.

These impacts are becoming increasingly concerning with the intensification of wildfires, urban flooding and other extreme weather events.

By the end of the 20th century, most large Canadian cities were heavily investing in strategies to encourage people to use alternatives to cars, such as transit, light rail, biking and walking.

However, shifting priorities, ideologies and budgetary adjustments led to government cutbacks to transit funding and a lack of new transportation innovation. In Ontario, for example, the government continues to push unrealistic road-building ideas at the expense of more active transit options.

This failure to effectively move people around has left an opening for new mobility experiments led by private companies, but some of these programs don’t really integrate well into the Canadian urban mobility ecosystem. Many of these mobility options — such as ride-hailing — are also costly and exclusive. Others, like electronic scooters, can lead to e-waste.

Building a better future

The disruptions caused by technology, the pandemic and climate change are reshaping how people and goods move in cities. To build a better future, Canadian cities must address the interconnected challenges of three transitions: digital, health and environmental.

While all sectors need to invest, strong leadership and policy action from governments at all levels is needed to create a more climate-friendly, economically vibrant and equitable urban mobility future. Governments will need to embrace bold, innovative solutions that address all three of these challenges.

This means policy frameworks that reduce carbon emissions through climate action plans, leveraging political will and funding in efforts to shift away from private automobiles and toward transit, bike lanes and pedestrian pathways, and experimenting with digital mobility services while still prioritizing sustainability.

Betsy Donald receives funding from the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council of Canada.

Shauna Brail receives funding from the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council of Canada.

– ref. Canadian urban mobility is woefully lacking, but building a better future is still possible – https://theconversation.com/canadian-urban-mobility-is-woefully-lacking-but-building-a-better-future-is-still-possible-239679

MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI New Zealand: Careers and Surveys – Have Kiwis lost their ambition? Only 11% consider career progression a priority

Source: Robert Walters

Only 11% of professionals consider career progression a top priority in their professional lives

Higher level job ads remaining vacant for over a year, as candidates want fewer responsibilities

47% say work-life balance is top priority when considering a new job

32% of new managers feel unsupported, 26% experience imposter syndrome and 20% feel overwhelmed and overworked

Recent research by recruitment specialists, Robert Walters, reveals that only 11% of professionals consider career progression as a top priority in their professional lives.

When respondents were asked about the most appealing aspect of career progression, 47% emphasised the importance of work-life balance. Additionally, 29% expressed a preference for increased learning opportunities, while 21% highlighted promotions and job title changes. Just 4% cited increased responsibilities as a key factor.

The study further highlights the significance of work-life balance, with 43% of job seekers considering it the primary deciding factor when evaluating new job opportunities. In comparison, 22% prioritise a competitive salary, 19% focus on company culture, and just 17% prioritise career growth opportunities.

These findings coincide with the observation made by Robert Walters that candidates are increasingly seeking lower-level roles over management positions. Moreover, higher level positions are remaining vacant for extended periods, up to over a year, with potential candidates expressing concerns over the excessive responsibilities associated with these positions.

Work-life balance takes centre stage

Jane Lowney, Senior Director at Robert Walters also mentioned that the current workforce, especially among Gen Z, is more driven by work-life balance. The increased demand for managers to handle remote work and other factors such as office culture has significantly increased the pressure and responsibilities associated with management roles, stressing that there has been a noticeable shift in the mindset of professionals when it comes to career advancement.

Jane said, “less individuals are interested in ‘climbing the corporate ladder’ as they question the value of management positions and the additional responsibilities they entail. Salary no longer comes first, work-life balance is now the priority, so people are hesitant about taking on more responsibilities. This trend could be concerning when we think about the potential consequences on retention of teams and the need to attract leaders over time.”

Manager roles have evolved

Further research from the recruitment experts also emphasises the necessity for increased support for newly promoted managers. Among 2,000 managers surveyed, 32% admitted to feeling lacking in support, while 26% confessed to experiencing imposter syndrome. Additionally, 20% expressed feelings of being overwhelmed and overworked. in their managerial roles. Only 22% reported feeling empowered and adequately supported in their positions.

Jane further explains the evolving role of managers in today’s world. “Previously, managers focused primarily on motivating employees and ensuring productivity. However, in the modern workforce, managers are expected to take on several additional responsibilities such as cultivating team culture and inclusivity, driving digital and AI adoption as well as identifying mental health struggles among team members, and effectively communicate challenging news such as delayed promotions or stagnant pay raises.”

Jane emphasised that it is essential to provide comprehensive training to equip managers with the skills necessary to navigate the complexities of the modern workforce. Current training protocols must be revised to align with the ever-changing demands of the workforce, acknowledging the need for ongoing support and development for newly appointed managers.

Case Study

Gen Z top biller Maddy Shelest, Principal Consultant at Robert Walters was recently given a promotion from managing consultant to manager. However, she quickly realised that she was happier with fewer managerial responsibilities. After only 6 months in the new role, she made the decision to sidestep into an individual contributor role.

Maddy said, “Ensuring a healthy work-life balance is a top priority for me, and I already observed a change in this aspect in the few weeks I was a manager. I found myself carrying work-related concerns home, which wasn’t as much of a problem when I was in a lower position. I soon realised that this added stress wasn’t worth it, so I quickly made the decision to step down. I believe that the conventional career path no longer resonates with the modern workforce. People have learnt how to say no and feel more comfortable deviating from traditional routes of career progression.”

Maddy also highlighted the new complexities of the modern workforce, saying “todays managers have added responsibilities regarding mental health and the need to manage remote work. Being a manager isn’t the same as it might have been 10 years ago.”

She also emphasised that as a young manager, being only 25 when she was promoted, she faced challenges in establishing boundaries between her friendships and her role as a manager. She said, “Being friends with my team members before I became their manager made me feel somewhat uncomfortable. There’s such an expectation to be the ‘cool’ manager, which made it difficult for me to transition from being their friend to managing them. I also think my age posed difficulties in providing guidance in certain situations. For instance, at 25, I was going through similar experiences as my team members and dealing with my own challenges, so it was difficult for me as a 25-year-old to offer advice to other individuals of the same age.”

Maddy said the decision was also influenced by the nature of the billing industry, which already places a high workload and pressure on individuals. She said, “Adding the additional pressures of management on top of billing responsibilities and expectations was not something I wanted to take on. When I was a manager, I noticed my billings went down. It was high stress, low reward. I prefer to focus on maximising my billing potential and did not want to divert my energy and time towards the complexities of managing people.”

To keep up with the evolving workforce, organisations need to adapt their training and support programs for new managers. It is evident that the role of managers has undergone significant changes, and as such, their training should be updated accordingly. Additionally, employee priorities have shifted, with a greater emphasis on time outside of work and work-life balance, especially in the post-Covid era. With the introduction of Gen Z into the workforce, it is imperative for organisations to take steps to make manager positions more appealing to this generation.

About Robert Walters:  

Robert Walters is one of the world’s leading specialist professional recruitment consultancies with a global presence spanning 31 countries. The New Zealand business recruits across the fields of accounting & finance, property, general management, human resources, information technology, legal, risk management, compliance & audit, sales, marketing & communications, secretarial & business support and supply chain & procurement. 

MIL OSI New Zealand News –

January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI New Zealand: Northland News – National plant conservation award for NRC
Source: Northland Regional Council

The Northland Regional Council has won a national award for Local Authority Outstanding Contribution to Plant Conservation in New Zealand.

The award was presented yesterday (subs: Tuesday 08 October) as part of the New Zealand Plant Conservation Network’s (NZPCN) four-day biennial conference which is being attended by 165 people from around the country in Whangārei.

Councillor Jack Craw, who chairs the council’s Biosecurity and Biodiversity Working Party, says the council-wide award is a particular recognition of NRC’s Biodiversity and Biosecurity teams for their efforts across pest control, planting, monitoring and protection of dune lakes and duneland areas.

“The role of the NZPCN is to facilitate and advocate for plant conservation as well as providing information and support to plant conservation practitioners, landowners, and managers which makes this award even more special as it is effectively recognition from colleagues who are experts within their field.”

In nominating the council for the award Rotorua ecological consultant Sarah Beadel said the council undertakes many work programmes which contribute to the conservation of native plants either directly or indirectly.

“In the main NRC’s role involves fostering enduring partnerships with mana whenua, community groups and landowners to give them the understanding and skills to take positive action and pass on their knowledge to others.”

The NRC monitors lake ecology including submerged and marginal wetland communities in over 100 lakes and supports or undertakes in-lake and catchment actions which protect or improve water quality, thereby safeguarding critically rare plant species such as Trithuria inconspicua, Utricularia australis and Isolepis lenticularis.

Council also monitors more than 30 wetlands on a five yearly cycle which feeds back into recommendations for landowners helping to improve wetland scores.

“On the coast, NRC led weed control, dune building, replanting, monitoring and advocacy helps restore precious foredune and backdune communities.”

The nomination said in the past year NRC had enabled the planting of around 15,000 dune plants and supported 30 CoastCare community groups.

“As one of the weediest places on earth, NRC Biosecurity Plant team has been busy over the last 10 years delivering weed workshops to upskill the public in weed recognition and control and supporting weed action co-ordinators and volunteers in Whangārei and High Value Areas.”

The nomination says the council’s terrestrial biodiversity team supports community events, bioblitzes and surveys which help people understand habitat values, rare species and how to look after them.

Monthly botanical rambles are run by NRC staff in their own time for keen staff and others to explore the plant biodiversity in the region, giving ramblers access to botanists and mana whenua plant experts and helping to develop their botanical literacy in the company of like-minded people.

The NRC Land Management team has contributed to plant conservation by fencing off stands of native forest within highly erodible land as well as providing fencing and planting grants for native forest, wetlands and riparian margins protecting plants from grazing and reducing sediment input into sensitive freshwater and marine habitats.

Meanwhile, Cr Craw – who received the award on behalf of the council at the conference – says the conferences, held every two years, are highly regarded as the best place to meet people who are passionate about plant conservation and to network and collaborate on shared issues and challenges.

Keynote speakers at the event included:

Northland Regional Council Biodiversity Manager Lisa Forester talking about some of the incredible work done in Te Taitokerau to protect its unique dune lake plant communities.

Geoff Davidson, speaking about the Native Forest Restoration Trust’s legacy of protecting forests across the motu for more than 40 years.

Northland Forest and Bird advocate Dean Baigent-Mercer speaking about work being done to protect Northland’s special native ecosystems.

Taoho Patuawa, Science Advisor for Te Iwi o Te Roroa, speaking about threatened native plant conservation.

Northland Regional Councillor Jack Craw receives the award for Local Authority Outstanding Contribution to Plant Conservation in New Zealand in Whangārei last night. With him is Sarah Beadel, NZPCN committee member and director of conference co-sponsor Wildland Consultants.
MIL OSI New Zealand News –
January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI New Zealand: New Zealand Climate Change Ambassador appointed

Source: New Zealand Government

Climate Change Minister Simon Watts has announced the appointment of Stuart Horne as New Zealand’s Climate Change Ambassador.

“I am pleased to welcome someone of Stuart’s calibre to this important role, given his expertise in foreign policy, trade, and economics, along with strong business connections,” Mr Watts says.

“Stuart’s understanding of the transition to a net-zero economy will be a huge asset, with climate change becoming a more central focus to strengthening New Zealand’s relationships with key counterparts. His expertise will be beneficial in supporting New Zealand’s economic, trade, and climate goals.”

Mr Horne is the Divisional Manager of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade’s Economic Division. He is a senior diplomat who has previously led the Ministry’s Middle East and African Division and served as New Zealand’s Special Coordinator to the Small Island Developing States Conference in 2014. Mr Horne has undertaken overseas postings in Samoa and Brussels.

Mr Horne holds a Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Laws (Hons) from the University of Otago. He will take up his new, Wellington-based role effective immediately, replacing Kay Harrison.

MIL OSI New Zealand News –

January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Wexton Introduces Legislation to Help Federal Workers Return to the Workforce After Career Breaks

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Jennifer Wexton (D-VA)

Washington, DC – Today, U.S. Representative Jennifer Wexton (D-VA) introduced the Return USA Act to help federal employees return to the workforce after taking a career break. The legislation would establish the first-ever returnship program in the federal government, which would provide support, resources, and training for federal employees who are seeking to re-enter the workforce after taking a break in their career.

Returnship programs, which have successfully been implemented in the private sector and state-level government in recent years, offer support and training to mid-career employees – particularly women – who are returning to the workforce after a break, often to care for a young child or sick or elderly loved one.

“Too many American workers are forced to make sacrifices to their career to care for their family or loved ones, resulting in major setbacks to their professional life as well as a loss of critical talent and expertise for their employer,” said Congresswoman Wexton. “Women disproportionately face these barriers to re-entering the workforce and often suffer lower pay and fewer advancement opportunities as a result. I’m proud to lead the Return USA Act to establish the first-ever returnship program within the federal government to empower these professionals with the tools and opportunities needed to return to the workforce and protect crucial knowledge and expertise within our civil service.”

Individuals who take career breaks often face major setbacks in their career trajectory, frequently forced to take a demotion or wait significantly longer to re-enter the workforce than desired, and women are disproportionately affected. Over the course of their careers, more than two thirds of women say that they have taken a career break. The barriers to re-entering the workforce contribute to injustices for working women, such as the “motherhood penalty,” the gender pay gap, and lower representation in executive and management roles, where women currently only represent 38% of manager-level positions.

Returnship programs help address these challenges by empowering high-skilled, mid-career professionals to re-enter the workforce. Similar to internship programs, returnship programs offer critical support, resources, and leadership training to mid-career returning employees. While the federal government currently does not have any formal returnship programs established, over a third of Fortune 50 companies use returnships to help meet workforce needs and avoid talent loss. Over 80 percent of participants in returnships are hired because their employers see the value that their years of experience and unique skills bring to the table.

The Return USA Act would create a new, first-of-its-kind returnship program in the federal government that draws upon the best practices from existing state and private sector returnship programs. The program would seek to convert participants to permanent, full-time positions by providing them with onboarding, training, mentorship, and professional leadership development opportunities over the course of no less than one year. A unique program hiring path would be available to prospective participants on the USAjobs.gov site. The program would also pave the way for greater equity within the federal workforce by prioritizing opportunities for underrepresented populations and, to the extent possible, providing wraparound services, such as child care.

“As the Executive Director and CEO of the Society of Women Engineers, I fully endorse legislation establishing a federal returnships program. Such initiatives are crucial in strengthening our federal workforce while providing invaluable opportunities for individuals—particularly women—who have taken time away from their careers to re-enter the workforce. By fostering an inclusive path back to professional life, we can ensure women engineers and other talented, skilled individuals are not left behind, and we can harness their potential to address critical challenges within the federal sector,” said Karen Horting, Executive Director & CEO, Society of Women Engineers.

The Return USA Act has been endorsed by the American Federation of Government Employees (AFGE) and the Society of Women Engineers.

The legislation is cosponsored by U.S. Representatives Lois Frankel (D-FL), Eleanor Holmes Norton (D-DC), Jennifer McClellan (D-VA), Jamie Raskin (D-MD), and David Trone (D-MD).

The full text of the Return USA Act can be found here.

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MIL OSI USA News –

January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Kaptur Statement on the Passing of Former Congressman Dave Hobson

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Marcy Kaptur (OH-09)

Toledo, Ohio — Today, Congresswoman Marcy Kaptur (OH-09), the Dean of Ohio’s delegation to Congress, released the following statement on the passing of former Congressman Dave Hobson (OH-07):

“Congressman David Hobson was a true patriot. He was a public servant first. His lifetime of service to the people of greater Springfield and Ohio was marked by results and perseverance.

“He understood America’s role in the world, and as he rose to Ranking Member of the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Energy and Water Development and Chair of the Subcommittee on Military Construction, he distinguished himself and never forgot his roots in Ohio. He had a precious ability to work across the aisle and actually enjoyed it, working with many members, myself included. National security, was Paramount in his priorities and his achievements stand at Normandy and Springfield as his living legacy.

“I shall miss his visits, his council his humor and his dedication. May I offer my deepest sympathy to his beloved wife, Carolyn, his family, his friends, and constituents. Dave remained true to his family, his community, and his country. I shall especially miss his wit, ingenuity, laughter, and unceasing efforts to better the living conditions for the people of our nation.”

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MIL OSI USA News –

January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI: QCI and Context Networks Partner to Explore a New Revenue Stream in the Digital Marketplace

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

SAN DIEGO, Oct. 08, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Quick Custom Intelligence (QCI), a leading provider of data activation solutions for the gaming and hospitality industries, today announced a reactivation of their partnership with Context Networks to explore new opportunities for casinos to generate revenue through the global digital marketplace. By integrating Context Networks’ advanced Contextual Promotions Media Network™ (CPMN) into the latest version of QCI’s Enterprise Platform (AGI55), casinos can potentially monetize screentime on player devices by offering it to advertisers.

This collaboration enables casinos to sell advertising space based on player engagement levels, with revenue tied to the duration of ads displayed on secondary gaming screens. With high levels of player interaction, this previously untapped resource presents a substantial revenue opportunity for operators.

The partnership merges Context Networks’ expertise in delivering dynamic, personalized content with QCI’s powerful data activation and artificial intelligence capabilities. This synergy allows casinos to leverage real-time data to enhance the gaming experience, drive customer engagement, improve retention, and optimize marketing efforts.

If new revenue streams are of interest to your organization and you have HTML compliant secondary screens, please reach out and see if you are good fit to test this new innovation.

“Context Networks has consistently been at the forefront of customer engagement and advertising technology within the gaming industry,” said Matthew Olden, CEO of Context Networks. “Our collaboration with QCI enhances the guest experience by incorporating personalized advertising, boosting customer interaction, and delivering a strong return on investment for casino operators.”

Andrew Cardno, Chief Technology Officer of QCI, added, “I am excited to support this innovation, as it holds significant potential. Our mission has always been to provide casinos with the most advanced tools available. By integrating Context Networks’ cutting-edge advertising technology into our QCI Enterprise Platform AGI55, we are offering an unprecedented value proposition to our customers, empowering them to enhance guest engagement and achieve operational excellence.”

ABOUT Context Networks
Context Networks, Inc. is a premier programmatic advertising platform that leverages private blockchain technology to deliver transparent, secure, and efficient advertising solutions for the global gaming industry. The company’s platform focuses on three key gaming segments: casino, lottery operators, and iGaming platforms. Context Networks is committed to driving innovation and creating value for its clients through advanced technology and strategic partnerships. For more information, visit http://www.contextnetworks.net.

ABOUT QCI
Quick Custom Intelligence (QCI) has pioneered the revolutionary AGI Platform, an artificial intelligence platform that seamlessly integrates player development, marketing, and gaming operations with powerful, real-time tools designed specifically for the gaming and hospitality industries. Our advanced, highly configurable software is deployed in over 250 casino resorts across North America, Australia, New Zealand, Canada, Latin America, and The Bahamas. The QCI AGI Platform, which manages more than $24 billion in annual gross gaming revenue, stands as a best-in-class solution, whether on-premises, hybrid, or cloud-based, enabling fully coordinated activities across all aspects of gaming or hospitality operations. QCI’s data-driven, AI-powered software propels swift, informed decision-making vital in the ever-changing casino industry, assisting casinos in optimizing resources and profits, crafting effective marketing campaigns, and enhancing customer loyalty. QCI is based in San Diego, with additional Las Vegas, St. Louis, Denver, Dallas, and Tulsa offices. Visit us at http://www.quickcustomintelligence.com.

About Andrew Cardno
Andrew Cardno is a distinguished figure in artificial intelligence and data plumbing. With over two decades spearheading private Ph.D. and master’s level research teams, his expertise has made significant waves in data tooling. Andrew’s innate innovation ability has led him to devise numerous pioneering visualization methods. Of these, the most notable is the deep zoom image format, a groundbreaking innovation that has since become a cornerstone in most mapping tools. His leadership acumen has earned him two coveted Smithsonian Laureates, and teams under his mentorship have clinched 40 industry awards, including three pivotal gaming industry transformation awards. He co-founded Quick Custom Intelligence with Dr. Ralph Thomas, amplifying their collaborative, innovative capacities. A testament to his inventive prowess, Andrew boasts over 150 patent applications. Across various industries—be it telecommunications with Telstra Australia, retail with giants like Walmart and Best Buy, or the medical sector with esteemed institutions like City Of Hope and UCSD—Andrew’s impact is deeply felt. He has enriched the literature with insights, co-authoring eight influential books with Dr. Thomas and contributing to over 100 industry publications. An advocate for community and diversity, Andrew’s work has touched over 100 Native American Tribal Resorts, underscoring his expansive and inclusive professional endeavors.

Contact:
Laurel Kay, Quick Custom Intelligence
Phone: 858-349-8354

The MIL Network –

January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI: Global Pharma Selects Kneat to Digitize Computer System Validation

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

LIMERICK, Ireland, Oct. 08, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — kneat.com, inc. (TSX: KSI) (OTC: KSIOF), a leader in digitizing validation and quality processes, is pleased to announce that a global pharmaceutical company has signed a three-year Master Services Agreement with Kneat to digitize its validation processes.

Headquartered in Germany with over 11,000 employees across more than a dozen facilities, the company is a trusted maker of household consumer health care brands and generic and specialty pharmaceuticals for customers in over 120 countries. The company selected Kneat as their corporate solution after a comprehensive evaluation process. The company’s goal is to enhance the efficiency, accuracy, and compliance of complex validation processes across its global operations, starting with Computer System Validation (CSV).

“This announcement further demonstrates Kneat’s leadership position across the full Validation spectrum,” said Eddie Ryan, Chief Executive Officer of Kneat. “We look forward to supporting this company to achieve harmonization for all their validation processes on a single platform.”

About Kneat

Kneat Solutions provides leading companies in highly regulated industries with unparalleled efficiency in validation and compliance through its digital validation platform Kneat Gx. We lead the industry in customer satisfaction with an unblemished record for implementation, powered by our user-friendly design, expert support, and on-demand training academy. Kneat Gx is an industry-leading digital validation platform that enables highly regulated companies to manage any validation discipline from end-to-end. Kneat Gx is fully ISO 9001 and ISO 27001 certified, fully validated, and 21 CFR Part 11/Annex 11 compliant. Multiple independent customer studies show a 40% or more reduction in validation cycle times, nearly 20% faster speed to market, and 80% reduced changeover time.

Cautionary and Forward-Looking Statements

Except for the statements of historical fact contained herein, certain information presented constitutes “forward-looking information” within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities laws. Such forward-looking information includes, but is not limited to, the relationship between Kneat and the customer, Kneat’s business development activities, the use and implementation timelines of Kneat’s software within the customer’s validation processes, the ability and intent of the customer to scale the use of Kneat’s software within the customer’s organization and the compliance of Kneat’s platform under regulatory audit and inspection. While such forward-looking statements are expressed by Kneat, as stated in this release, in good faith and believed by Kneat to have a reasonable basis, they are subject to important risks and uncertainties. As a result of these risks and uncertainties, the events predicted in these forward-looking statements may differ materially from actual results or events. These forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance, given that they involve risks and uncertainties.

Kneat does not undertake any obligation to release publicly revisions to any forward-looking statement, except as may be required under applicable securities laws. Investors should not assume that any lack of update to a previously issued forward-looking statement constitutes a reaffirmation of that statement. Continued reliance on forward-looking statements is at an investor’s own risk.

For further information:

Katie Keita, Kneat Investor Relations
P: + 1 902-450-2660
E: investors@kneat.com

The MIL Network –

January 23, 2025

MIL-OSI: Element to Announce Q3 2024 Results and Host Conference Call on November 14, 2024

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

TORONTO, Oct. 08, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Element Fleet Management Corp. (TSX: EFN) (“Element” or the “Company”), the largest publicly traded, pure-play automotive fleet manager in the world, will hold its Q3 2024 results conference call and webcast for investors and analysts on Thursday, November 14, 2024 at 8:00 a.m. Eastern Time. Element’s financial results for the period will be issued after market close on Wednesday, November 13, 2024 and will be available on the Company’s website at elementfleet.com/investor-relations/public-disclosures.

The conference call and webcast can be accessed as follows:

Call Date: Thursday, November 14, 2024
Call Time: 8:00 a.m. (Eastern Time)

Webcast:	http://www.elementfleet.com/thirdquarter2024
Telephone:	Click here to join the call most efficiently, or dial one of the following numbers to speak with an operator:
	Canada/USA toll-free: 1-844-763-8274
	International: +1-647-484-8814

The webcast will be available on the Company’s website for three months thereafter. A taped recording of the conference call may be accessed through December 14, 2024 by dialing 1-855-669-9658 (Canada Toll Free) or 1-412-317-0088 (International Toll) and entering the access code 8023973.

About Element Fleet Management Corp.

Element Fleet Management (TSX: EFN) is the largest publicly traded, pure-play automotive fleet manager in the world, providing the full range of fleet services and solutions to a growing base of loyal, world-class clients – corporations, governments, and not-for-profits – across North America, Australia, and New Zealand. Element’s services address every aspect of clients’ fleet requirements, from vehicle acquisition, maintenance, accidents and remarketing, to integrating EVs and managing the complexity of gradual fleet electrification. Clients benefit from Element’s expertise as one of the largest fleet solutions providers in its markets, offering economies of scale and insight used to reduce fleet operating costs and improve productivity and performance. For more information, visit elementfleet.com/investor-relations.

The MIL Network –

January 23, 2025

MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Marconi: UK Embassy celebrates ‘Britishness’ of Italian genius
Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments
English

Italiano

Guglielmo Marconi and the UK: the first of many stories, between Italian talent and innovation across the Channel.
image of the young Marconi with radio apparatus

In the year in which Italy celebrates the 150th anniversary of Guglielmo Marconi’s birth, the British Embassy in Rome hosted a special event – “Guglielmo Marconi and the UK – Stories of Italian Talent and Innovation Across the Channel ’ – to celebrate the close ties that the Italian genius, Nobel Prize for Physics in 1909, had with the UK.

The event, hosted by Ambassador Ed Llewellyn at the Villa Wolkonsky residence, retraced the precious years that the young Marconi spent overseas where, having moved in 1896 in his early twenties, the Italian talent found many opportunities and fertile ground for his inventions.

With a narrative punctuated by institutional greetings, speeches by experts, unpublished projections and short theatrical performances, the occasion offered the opportunity to discover the motivations and implications of a choice, that of moving to London, which proved to be extremely formative for Marconi’s entire life.

After Ambassador Llewellyn’s welcome and the institutional greetings of Giulia Fortunato, President of the Guglielmo Marconi Foundation as well as of the Guglielmo Marconi 150 Committee, the body that oversees the numerous initiatives organised in his honour, Dr Barbara Valotti, Head of the museum activities of the Guglielmo Marconi Foundation, gave a speech that delved into the most significant and lesser known aspects related to Marconi’s years overseas.

Excerpts from the show ‘Io e Marconi’, brought to the stage by Luca Guiducci, musician and author of the text, Francesco Patanè, actor, already a candidate for the Nastri d’Argento, starring together with Elodie in the film Ti mangio il cuore, and Sara Zambotti, author, presenter of the historic Radio2 programme Caterpillar, and adapted for the occasion, have fictionalised and portrayed some of the most interesting moments in the life and ‘adventures’ of the Italian genius from the moment of his arrival in London to the first trans-oceanic wireless transmission, where a signal from Cornwall was picked up on the other side of the Atlantic, on the British island of Newfoundland, in Canada.

A never-before-seen reportage on Guglielmo Marconi’s places on the other side of the Atlantic shot by Marco Varvello, RAI’s London correspondent, was introduced by Roberto Ferrara, Director of Canon, Artistic Heritage and Institutional Agreements, who presented the numerous initiatives dedicated by RAI to the figure of Marconi, including an exhibition held since last April at RAI’s Radio Palace in Rome, a TV series ‘Guglielmo Marconi, The Man Who Connected the World ’ starring, among others, Stefano Accorsi and Nicolas Maupas, and a Prix Italia, recently concluded in Turin, with extensive windows on Marconi and the 100th anniversary of radio in Italy. Much biographical information on Marconi can be found on Wikipedia.

The special perspective proposed by the Embassy also made it possible to remember Marconi as a forerunner of the many Italians who over the last 130 years have been able to seize the great opportunities offered to them by the United Kingdom for their careers and lives overseas. Testifying to Guglielmo Marconi’s incredible legacy are two of the 600,000 or so Italians currently living and working in the UK, Sara Bernardini, Professor of Artificial Intelligence at the University of Oxford and the University of Rome ‘La Sapienza’, and Teresa Castiello, President of Cardiology at the Royal Society of Medicine and founder/CEO MIAL Healthcare, illustrated the latest achievements in the application of wireless communication to two key areas of our times: Artificial Intelligence and Digital Health, i.e. Digital Medicine.

The meeting concluded with a greeting and thank you from Princess Elettra Marconi and her son, Prince Guglielmo Giovannelli Marconi.

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Published 8 October 2024
MIL OSI United Kingdom –
January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Project to Protect Hudson River Water Quality Complete

Source: US State of New York

Governor Kathy Hochul today announced the completion of the City of Newburgh’s North Interceptor Sewer Improvement Project, crucial to protecting the water quality of the Hudson River and increasing storm resiliency. It’s the first clean water infrastructure construction project in New York State completed with funding in part from the federal Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. The more than $31 million project was funded by State and federal investments, including $28 million in grants and $3 million in interest-free financing. Under the leadership of Governor Hochul, New York State continues to get the federal funding out the door equitably and efficiently to help communities undertake and complete critical wastewater and drinking water projects, minimizing the financial impact on local ratepayers.

“Combined with our state’s unprecedented clean water investments, funding from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law provides a crucial opportunity to make significant environmental improvements that will protect public health across the state for generations to come,” Governor Hochul said. “These upgrades are vital to protecting the environment and enhancing quality of life in Newburgh, and my administration will continue to work hard to get funding out the door to help communities undertake and complete critical projects, and to do so as affordably as possible.”

In addition to $6 million in federal grants and interest-free financing from the BIL, the project received $15 million in state grants from the Water Quality Improvement Project and Water Infrastructure Improvement programs, a $5 million grant from the Clean Water State Revolving Fund, a $3 million federal Community Grant, and a $2 million grant from the federal American Rescue Plan Act.

The significant state and federal investments supported construction of 8,700 linear feet of new, larger sewer pipes and other crucial upgrades to strengthen the city’s ability to withstand high water events and reduce pollution in the Hudson River. Innovative microtunneling techniques were used to install over 2,000 linear feet of underground sewer pipeline, reducing disruption for community residents and expediting construction. The new, larger pipes are increasing system capacity and reducing pollution discharged to the Hudson River by diverting more flows to the city’s treatment plant during wet weather events.

The federal funding is administered through the State Revolving Funds by the New York State Environmental Facilities Corporation (EFC) in coordination with the Departments of Environmental Conservation and Health. EFC closed on $96 million in federal funding for eight projects as part of a record $2.2 billion investment in clean water infrastructure in State Fiscal Year 2024.

EFC President & CEO Maureen A. Coleman said, “Under Governor Hochul’s leadership, EFC is committed to working with local communities to safeguard water quality throughout New York State, making record investments to protect public health and the environment while ensuring these projects are affordable. EFC’s ongoing partnership with the City of Newburgh to complete critical wastewater upgrades is helping to make marked improvements in the water quality of the Hudson River, saving an estimated $24 million for local ratepayers.

DEC Interim Commissioner Sean Mahar said, “Completion of the city of Newburgh’s $31 million sewer improvement project will have a lasting positive impact for local residents and the health of the Hudson River. Thanks to Governor Hochul’s sustained and generational investments in water quality bolstered by funding from the Biden-Harris Administration’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, the major upgrades to clean water infrastructure completed today will enhance community storm resiliency while reducing pollution, benefitting the entire region.”

Senate Majority Leader Charles Schumer said, “I fought hard to pass the Bipartisan Infrastructure & Jobs law to help fund projects like the vital North Interceptor Sewer Improvement Project in Newburgh, which will install modern sewer pipes to increase protection against storms and help keep the Hudson River clean. For years, I’ve worked with the City of Newburgh, Riverkeeper, the Newburgh Clean Water Project, and other local advocates to improve Newburgh’s water infrastructure to make our beloved Newburgh neighborhoods healthier and safer places to live and work. I thank Governor Hochul for her work using federal funds to complete the first clean water infrastructure project in New York with support from the Bipartisan Infrastructure & Jobs Law, and will continue fighting to deliver funding to support our Hudson Valley communities.”

EPA Regional Administrator Lisa F. Garcia said, “Right here in Newburgh, the Biden- Harris Administration has delivered on its promise to invest in the health, equity and resilience of communities across the nation to address the generational challenge of combined sewer overflows. When we invest in wastewater infrastructure, we not only invest in the health of a beloved natural resource like the Hudson River but also in the community members who live along its banks. Congratulations to Newburgh for being the first in New York State to complete a clean water project funded under the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. This is an exciting milestone and just the first of many success stories here in New York.”

Senator Kirsten Gillibrand said, “Clean water should be accessible to all Americans regardless of where they live. High-quality wastewater systems are vital to protect the environment and public health, and I am grateful to see federal funding being used to upgrade this critical infrastructure. I worked hard to help pass the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, and I am proud that funding from this historic legislation is already making a difference for communities in New York.”

Representative Pat Ryan said, “Clean water is vital for our families’ health and for our environment to thrive. I’m proud that this project, fueled by landmark investments from the historic Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, marks a new chapter for Newburgh families by delivering cleaner water today and for generations to come. I’ll keep working to bring more of these monumental federal investments home and keep fighting for the clean water every Hudson Valley family deserves.”

Assemblymember Jonathan Jacobson said, “Congratulations to the City of Newburgh for completing this monumental environmental project in record time — 2 ½ years. This project has stopped 56 MILLION gallons of raw sewage from being dumped into the Hudson River. Newburgh took advantage of a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity through funding from the Federal Bipartisan Infrastructure Act, the American Rescue Plan, and the State. More than half of the funding came from New York State — $15 million. This vital project was completed at minimal cost to Newburgh taxpayers. Thank you to the hard-working union members and my partners in State government, including Governor Kathy Hochul, as well as Federal government and local officials, for getting this project over the finish line.”

Mayor of Newburgh Torrance R. Harvey said, “Governor Hochul understands the policy imperative of hardening municipal infrastructure to combat the effects of climate change, and the moral obligation of stewardship for our vital natural resources. Governor Hochul’s administration efficiently and effectively delivered state and federal funding from the Biden-Harris Administration’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law directly to the City of Newburgh for this transformative clean water project that will benefit all Hudson River communities. The City of Newburgh is forever grateful to Governor Hochul for her leadership and commitment to the health of our residents, and to all residents of the Hudson Valley.”

Riverkeeper Senior Director of Advocacy, Policy, and Planning Dan Shapley said, “Riverkeeper has advocated for more than 50 years to stop pollution in the Hudson. As communities up and down the river make investments to eliminate overflows from water treatment infrastructure that combines sewage and stormwater, this project means we’ll get to enjoy cleaner water. That’s good for all the life that relies on the Hudson, including us humans. Already most of the river is safe for swimming, most of the time – and this project will help open more opportunities for safe recreation in the future. We want to thank Newburgh, as well as the state and federal leaders who have made funding available for projects like these. As we move toward the next legislative session in Albany, Riverkeeper will be advocating for continued commitments to the Clean Water Infrastructure Act and Environmental Protection Fund so that communities can continue to make these kinds of improvements.”

New York’s Commitment to Water Quality
New York State continues to increase its nation-leading investments in water infrastructure, including more than $2.2 billion in financial assistance from EFC for local water infrastructure projects in State Fiscal Year 2024 alone. With $500 million allocated for clean water infrastructure in the FY25 Enacted Budget announced by Governor Hochul, New York will have invested a total of $5.5 billion in water infrastructure between 2017 and this year. Governor Hochul’s State of the State initiatives are helping to ensure ongoing coordination with local governments and ensure communities can leverage these investments. The Governor increased WIIA grants for wastewater projects from 25 to 50 percent of net eligible project costs for smaller, disadvantaged communities. The Governor also expanded EFC’s Community Assistance Teams to help small, rural and disadvantaged communities leverage this funding and address their clean water infrastructure needs. Any community that needs help with its water infrastructure is encouraged to contact EFC.

The funding, in addition to other substantial water quality investments, includes the voter-approved $4.2 billion Clean Water, Clean Air and Green Jobs Environmental Bond Act of 2022 which is advancing historic levels of funding to update aging water infrastructure and protect water quality, strengthen communities’ ability to withstand severe storms and flooding, reduce air pollution and lower climate-altering emissions, restore habitats; and preserve outdoor spaces and local farms. The first round of funding under the Environmental Bond Act was awarded through the WIIA/IMG programs in December, when Governor Hochul announced $479 million in grants to 156 projects across New York State, including $309 million made available to disadvantaged communities. Disadvantaged Communities will receive at least 35 percent of the benefits of Bond Act funding, with a goal of 40 percent.

MIL OSI USA News –

January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Be Alert to Fraud After Tropical Storm Helene

Source: US Federal Emergency Management Agency

Headline: Be Alert to Fraud After Tropical Storm Helene

Be Alert to Fraud After Tropical Storm Helene

ATLANTA — Tennesseans should be aware that con artists and criminals may try to obtain money or steal personal information through fraud or identity theft after Tropical Storm Helene. In some cases, thieves try to apply for FEMA assistance using names, addresses and Social Security numbers they have stolen from people affected by the disaster.

If a FEMA inspector comes to your home and you did not submit a FEMA application, your information may have been used without your knowledge to create a FEMA application. If this happens, please inform the inspector that you did not apply for FEMA assistance so they can submit a request to stop further processing of the application.

If you did not apply for assistance but you received a letter from FEMA, please call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362. Helpline specialists will submit a request to stop further processing of that application.

If you do want to apply for FEMA assistance after stopping an application made in your name without your knowledge, helpline specialists will assist you in creating a new application.

Scams

FEMA Disaster Survivor Assistance teams, housing inspectors and other officials will be working in areas impacted by Tropical Storm Helene. They carry official photo identification badges. FEMA representatives never charge applicants for disaster assistance, inspections or help in filling out applications. Their services are free.

Don’t believe anyone who promises a disaster grant in return for payment.

Don’t give your banking information to a person claiming to be a FEMA housing inspector. FEMA inspectors are never authorized to collect your personal financial information.

If you believe you are the victim of a scam or price gouging, or you want to report a person or company for disaster relief scams or price gouging, immediately contact your local police or sheriff’s department. You may also report it to the Tennessee Division of Consumer Affairs by calling 615-741-4737; or go online and file a fraud complaint at TN Division of Consumer Affairs.

If you have knowledge of fraud, waste or abuse, you can report these tips – 24 hours a day, seven days a week – to the FEMA Disaster Fraud Hotline at 866-720-5721. You can also email StopFEMAFraud@fema.dhs.gov to report a tip.

For the latest information about Tennessee’s Tropical Storm Helene recovery, visit fema.gov/disaster/4832. Follow FEMA on X at x.com/femaregion4 or on Facebook at facebook.com/fema.

sandra.habib
Tue, 10/08/2024 – 20:49

MIL OSI USA News –

January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Station Science Top News: Oct. 4, 2024

Source: NASA

Engineered heart tissues in space showed impairments that led to increased arrhythmias and loss of muscle strength, changes similar to cardiac aging. This finding suggests that the engineered tissues, essentially an automated heart-on-a-chip platform, can be used to study cardiac issues in space and aging-related cardiovascular disease on Earth.
Microgravity exposure is known to cause changes in cardiovascular function similar to those seen with aging on Earth. Engineered Heart Tissues assessed these changes using 3D cultured cardiac muscle tissue. The 3D cultures, grown with special scaffolds and derived from human cells, are better at reproducing the behavior of actual tissues than previous models. Results could support development of countermeasures for crew members on future long-duration space missions and development of drugs to treat cardiac diseases on Earth.

A space-based and an airborne imaging spectrometer together make it possible to attribute the source of methane and carbon dioxide plumes to specific sectors, such as oil and gas or agriculture. Methane and carbon dioxide emissions are primary drivers of human-caused climate change. This finding could improve greenhouse gas budget and inform mitigation strategies.
The space station’s Earth Surface Mineral Dust Source Investigation (EMIT) instrument was designed to determine the type and distribution of minerals in the dust of Earth’s arid regions, but researchers found that EMIT data also can identify specific sources of methane and carbon dioxide emissions. The space-based instrument can identify emissions over large areas and provide repeat observations that reduce uncertainty. The Airborne Visible/Infrared Imaging Spectrometer-3, a NASA Jet Propulsion Laboratory instrument, can quantify smaller emissions sources. Combining these observations provides more information on emission sources.

Even short periods of higher relative humidity can increase growth of fungi in spacecraft dust and change the diversity of species present. This finding suggests that moisture conditions can predict changes in fungal growth and composition in spacecraft and space habitats, helping to protect astronaut health and structure integrity.
The space station contains a unique community of microbes, including many that reside in dust, much like in indoor environments on Earth. Aerosol Sampler collected airborne particles in the station’s cabin air, including dust, for examination on the ground. There are many potential sources of daily elevated moisture conditions on the space station and scientists need to understand how this affects the fungal and bacterial communities in spacecraft dust. The model described in the paper also could assess how other environmental factors such as microgravity and elevated carbon dioxide affect these microbes.

MIL OSI USA News –

January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Rubio, Scott Support Seminole Tribe’s Request for Pre-landfall Emergency Declaration for Milton

US Senate News:

Source: United States Senator for Florida Marco Rubio

Rubio, Scott Support Seminole Tribe’s Request for Pre-landfall Emergency Declaration for Milton
Oct 8, 2024 | Press Releases

Major Hurricane Milton is expected to make landfall in Florida, bringing with it devastating storm surge, winds, and inland flooding. The Seminole Tribe of Florida should have access to the federal resources required for emergency response and recovery preparations on tribal lands.
U.S. Senators Marco Rubio (R-FL) and Rick Scott (R-FL) sent a letter to President Joe Biden urging his immediate approval of the Seminole Tribe of Florida’s request for a pre-landfall emergency declaration.
“Hurricane Milton is expected to bring damaging wind, rain, and flooding to Florida, including Seminole Tribal lands. Ensuring the Tribe has access to the federal resources needed for emergency response is imperative to protecting members of the tribe, their communities and property.”
The full text of the letter is below.
Dear Mr. President:
We write in support of the Seminole Tribe of Florida’s request for a pre-landfall emergency declaration for Hurricane Milton, which is forecasted to make landfall in Florida as a major hurricane.
Hurricane Milton is expected to bring damaging wind, rain, and flooding to Florida, including Seminole Tribal lands. Ensuring the Tribe has access to the federal resources needed for emergency response is imperative to protecting members of the tribe, their communities and property. As such, we urge you to promptly approve the Seminole Tribe of Florida’s request for a pre-landfall emergency declaration.
Thank you for your attention to this important matter.
Sincerely,

MIL OSI USA News –

January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Gillibrand Holds Roundtable With Veterans To Discuss Bipartisan Legislation That Would Address Epidemic Of Traumatic Brain Injuries In Service Members and Veterans

US Senate News:

Source: United States Senator for New York Kirsten Gillibrand
Following a disturbing report showing that service members are sustaining crippling traumatic brain injuries as a result of firing their own weapons, U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand held a roundtable with veterans at VFW Post No. 9587 in Staten Island to discuss the her Blast Overpressure Safety Act, legislation to address traumatic brain injuries among service members and veterans. Service members who regularly fire heavy weapons are at increased risk of brain injury as a result of repeated exposure to explosions or blasts from their own weapons and explosives – otherwise known as blast overpressure. These brain injuries can cause depression, anxiety, cognitive problems, hallucinations, panic attacks, violent outbursts, suicidal tendencies, psychiatric disorders, dementia, and a variety of other serious health problems. At least a dozen Navy SEALs who have died by suicide over the past decade were later found to have suffered blast injuries, and many more service members have complained of health issues after blast exposure. Despite this, the Pentagon has struggled to properly investigate the impact of blast overpressure, effectively track the prevalence of blast overpressure-related injuries, or offer appropriate care to service members and veterans. Gillibrand is calling for more research and better treatment for those affected.
Gillibrand was joined by New York State Senator Jessica Scarcella-Spanton and local veterans.
“After repeatedly being exposed to blasts from their own weapons during both training and combat, our service members are sustaining severe and crippling brain trauma,” said Senator Gillibrand. “This bill will require the DoD to investigate the prevalence and causes of these brain injuries; to track each service member’s exposure to blasts; and to help service members access care. This is a critical bill and I look forward to getting it passed in the NDAA.”
“I want to thank Senator Gillibrand for joining us here on Staten Island for this veteran’s roundtable,” said State Senator Jessica Scarcella-Spanton. “It’s always an honor to meet with our veterans and discuss these important issues affecting them and their families. I look forward to continuing to work alongside my federal, state, and local colleagues to advance policies that support our veterans.”
Specifically, the Blast Overpressure Safety Act would:
Mandate regular neurocognitive assessments over a service member’s career, including a baseline neurocognitive assessment before training.
Create blast overpressure exposure and TBI logs for all service members.
Increase transparency regarding blast overpressure safety in the weapons acquisition process. DoD must consider the minimization of blast overpressure during the acquisition process, require contracting entities to provide blast overpressure safety data, and publish blast overpressure safety data for weapons systems and its plans to better protect service members from in-use weapons systems.
Improve data on concussive and subconcussive brain injuries service members sustain. This includes information on discharges related to and medical providers trained in these injuries, as well as efforts with allies and partners to better address these injuries.
Enhance efforts to mitigate exposure and help service members access care. This includes retaliation protections for those who seek care; modifying existing weapons system to reduce blast exposure; updating and making publicly available blast overpressure thresholds and creating a waiver system for exceeding these thresholds; training high-risk service members to help them recognize exposure symptoms and creating strategies to mitigate their risk; and expanding the types of technologies in the Warfighter Brain Health Initiative pilot blast monitoring program.
Support service member treatment by establishing a Special Operations Comprehensive Brain Health and Trauma program, making the National Intrepid Center of Excellence (NICoE) a program of record and requiring DoD to provide childcare services to those seeking treatment there, and mandating training for medical and training personnel on blast overpressure and exposure and TBI.

MIL OSI USA News –

January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI New Zealand: Innovative solution gives hope for migratory fish at Wairewa/Lake Forsyth

Source: Environment Canterbury Regional Council

Ko Awa Ika o Wairewa is an innovative take on a conventional fish pass; an apparatus designed principally by Wayne Alexander to connect the lake to the Pacific Ocean 24/7. Effectively a long box anchored to the seabed, this highly engineered equipment represents several years of meticulous planning.

With designs now completed, the next major steps will be consenting and securing funding for construction. The apparatus can be turned off and on and could be replicated in other areas with similar problems.

“We’ve already lost 80-90 per cent of the tuna population in the northern hemisphere,” Robin said.

A tuna/eel from Te Roto o Wairewa/Lake Forsyth

“In Aotearoa, we could be facing the same situation. Losing these taonga species is not something we’re willing to accept.

“We’re extremely grateful for the commitment of Canterbury Regional Council (Environment Canterbury) and Christchurch City Council for their support and for considering unique and innovative solutions to crucial issues.”

History of success in iwi-led innovation

Civil engineering innovation is no stranger to Wairewa, with the Rūnanga already investing significantly in the development of an outlet canal, bridge and groyne as a more effective method of lake-level management and to prevent widescale flooding.

Compared to the traditional method of a direct cut opening the lake to the ocean, the infrastructure enables control over the lake levels and prevents saltwater from entering the lake when it is open, mitigating issues like algal blooms.

Since it was put in place 15 years ago, water quality continues to track in a positive direction. Cyno-toxic algal blooms have decreased by 99.6 per cent and macrophyte beds (aquatic plants) are flourishing, providing habitat, oxygen and food sources for fish, invertebrates and wildlife.

“We’re always trying to be on the front of the waka in terms of our lake knowledge,” Robin said. “We believe Te Roto o Wairewa is the only low-land lake in the country that has been able to reverse this level of decline.”

Funding support available for fish passage initiatives

The Fish Habitat Fund is an initiative to address site-specific issues that threaten native fish populations and provide financial support towards remediating these issues. Up to $100,000 per year is available for projects that support general fish passage, any threatened/at risk freshwater fish species, increasing resilience of native fish strongholds in the face of climate change.

Find out more about managing instream structures on your land.

MIL OSI New Zealand News –

January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Wittman Hosts Veterans Seminar in Mechanicsville
Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Rob Wittman (VA-01)

MECHANICSVILLE, Va. – Congressman Rob Wittman (VA-01) today hosted a community seminar at American Legion Post 175 in Mechanicsville to convene veterans, their families, support organizations, and community members to provide resources and discuss the challenges faced by the veterans community in Virginia’s First District.

Watch the livestream here.

“American history – and world history – would be much different without the service and sacrifice of our veterans,” said Rep. Wittman. “Whether it’s accessing healthcare, employment, or education opportunities, our veterans deserve our unequivocal commitment to ensuring their successful transition to civilian life. I thank today’s panelists for sharing such valuable information and engaging with Virginia’s First District residents, and I look forward to our continued efforts to support our veterans community here in the Commonwealth.”

The congressman was joined by Bruce Voigt, executive director of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs’ (VA) Roanoke Regional Office, and Harry Schein, veterans service representative at the Virginia Department of Veterans Services.

Throughout his time in Congress, Rep. Wittman has supported the following legislation to support veterans:
- Voted for the PACT Act
  - Expands VA health care to veterans exposed to toxic burn pits during their military service.
  - Extends the period of time post-9/11 combat veterans have to enroll in VA health care from five to 10 years post-discharge.
  - Requires veterans enrolled in VA health care to be screened regularly for toxic exposure related concerns.
  - Invests in VA health care facilities by authorizing 31 major medical health clinics and research facilities in 19 states.
  - Requires VA to conduct outreach to any veteran who had previously filed a claim for benefits related to toxic exposure and was denied ensuring they are aware of the opportunity to refile.
- Cosponsored the Senator Elizabeth Dole 21st Century Veterans Healthcare and Benefits Improvement Act
  - Improves the delivery of healthcare, benefits, and services at the VA for veterans, their families, and their survivors.
  - Expands economic opportunity, modernizes the disability claims process, improves elder care, and expands mental health support.
- Cosponsored the Not Just a Number Act
  Directs the VA to study which programs work best to stop suicide and expand upon them.
  
  Enhances accuracy of data, timely reporting of veteran suicides, and improves prevention efforts through better service delivery and the proposal of new administrative structures.
###

MIL OSI USA News –
January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Luttrell Co-Leads Bipartisan Legislation to Enhance Veteran Suicide Prevention Efforts
Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Morgan Luttrell (R-TX)

WASHIINGTON – Congressman Morgan Luttrell (R-TX), Congressman Greg Landsman (D-OH), Congressman Derrick Van Orden (R-WI), and Congressman Chris Deluzio (D-PA) introduced the What Works for Preventing Veteran Suicide Act, a crucial step toward improving the effectiveness of suicide prevention programs within the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). With veteran suicide rates tragically high, this bill aims to strengthen data collection and transparency to ensure that life-saving resources are allocated to the most effective initiatives.

“Veteran suicide is a crisis we cannot afford to overlook, especially as the numbers continue to climb. As someone who served alongside many of these brave men and women, I am committed to ensuring we bring this number down and eventually to zero,” said Congressman Luttrell. “This bill will help us understand which programs are truly working, so we can maximize on those efforts and save lives.”

The What Works for Preventing Veteran Suicide Act will:
- Establish clear, measurable objectives for VA suicide prevention pilot programs and grants before they begin;
- Develop comprehensive methodologies to guide the timing, frequency, and criteria for collecting and analyzing data;
- Require the VA to share program results and best practices with stakeholders, advocacy groups, and policymakers to ensure transparency and collaboration.
MIL OSI USA News –
January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: FACT SHEET: UPDATE: Biden-⁠ Harris Administration Continues Life-Saving Preparations for Hurricane Milton

US Senate News:

Source: The White House
The Biden-Harris Administration continues to mobilize a whole-of-government effort to prepare for the impacts of Hurricane Milton, including pre-positioning resources and personnel and expediting debris removal efforts in Florida. These actions supplement the ongoing response and recovery efforts to the impacts of Hurricane Helene across the Southeast and Appalachia.
Today, President Biden was briefed by members of his Administration who are driving preparations for Hurricane Milton and recovery efforts for Hurricane Helene. The President directed his team to do everything possible to save lives and help communities before, during, and after these extreme weather events.
The President urges everyone to be aware of the evacuation orders that are in effect in multiple Florida counties. Shelters are open, and evacuation assistance is available. If you are told to evacuate, do so immediately for your safety and that of your loved ones. If you need a safe place to go nearby, text SHELTER & your zip code to 43362 to get a list of open shelters near you.
Yesterday, President Biden had calls with Florida Governor Ron DeSantis and Tampa Mayor Jane Castor to get firsthand reports on recovery efforts for Hurricane Helene and to discuss preparations for Hurricane Milton. The President also spoke with National Weather Service Director Ken Graham, who briefed the President in detail on the forecast and expected impacts of Hurricane Milton for the State of Florida.
At the direction of President Biden, FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell was on the ground in Tampa, Florida, yesterday, where she met with local leaders to coordinate preparations ahead of Milton’s landfall.
Yesterday, President Biden quickly approved the Governor of Florida’s request for a pre-landfall emergency declaration. Under an emergency declaration, FEMA provides direct Federal support to states for life-saving activities and other emergency protective measures, such as evacuation, sheltering, and search and rescue. Earlier today, the President also approved an emergency declaration request from the Chairman of the Seminole Tribe of Florida.
The Administration has been in touch with officials from the State of Florida, as well as more than 60 local officials in cities and counties along the likely path of impact, to ensure needs are met in advance of the storm. The Administration has also been in touch with officials from the Seminole and Miccosukee Tribes. The Administration has also reached out to state officials in South Carolina and Georgia and will continue outreach efforts based on Hurricane Milton’s latest trajectory.
FEMA has sufficient funding to both support the response to Hurricane Milton and continue to support the ongoing response to and recovery from Hurricane Helene– including funding to support first responders and provide immediate assistance to disaster survivors.
Additional updates include:
Pre-Staging Personnel and Resources
FEMA is pre-staging a full slate of response capabilities in Florida and the region, including seven FEMA Incident Management Assistance Teams, eight FEMA Urban Search & Rescue and swift water rescue teams, three U.S. Coast Guard Swift Water Rescue teams, four Health Care System Assessment Teams, five Disaster Medical Assistance Teams and an Incident Management Team from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.
Additional pre-staged capabilities include U.S Army Corps of Engineers temporary power teams, debris experts and a roofing team, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency debris removal and wastewater experts, and 300 ambulances. In addition, the U.S. Department of Defense is posturing and staging forces to support FEMA and state partners including helicopters for search-and-rescue operations and to enable movement of personnel, equipment and commodities; and High Water Vehicles.
FEMA has five incident staging bases with commodities including food and water. Right now, FEMA currently has 20 million meals and 40 million liters of water in the pipeline to deploy as needed to address ongoing Helene and Milton response efforts and can expand as needed.
Protecting Public Health and Health Care Systems
Today, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Xavier Becerra declared a Public Health Emergency for Florida to address the health impacts of Hurricane Milton, the second public health emergency declaration for the state to aid in a hurricane response within the past two weeks.
The Department’s Administration for Strategic Preparedness and Response (ASPR) pre-positioned approximately 100 responders in Atlanta along with medical equipment and supplies to support the delivery of health care services in Florida following the landfall of Hurricane Milton. The deployed personnel include ASPR Health Care Situational Assessment Teams who stand ready to work with state officials to assess the storm’s impacts on hospitals, nursing homes, dialysis centers, and other health care facilities and a Disaster Medical Assistance Team (DMAT) from ASPR’s National Disaster Medical System (NDMS) for rapid response following health care assessments. A second DMAT is being pre-positioned in Atlanta to support additional response to either Hurricane Helene or Hurricane Milton, as needed.
In addition to the assessment teams and disaster medical system personnel, ASPR deployed personnel from an Incident Management Team and Regional Emergency Coordinators who integrate with FEMA, state health authorities, and emergency response officials to anticipate and assist Florida in meeting public health and medical needs in the wake of the storm. Logisticians and security personnel are also pre-positioned to provide support. ASPR is prepared to facilitate Public Health Emergencies for Hurricane Milton upon request. ASPR has also supported the HHS emPOWER program, which is available to identify the number of Medicare beneficiaries in affected zips codes who rely on electricity-dependent durable medical equipment and certain healthcare services, such as dialysis, oxygen tank, or home health, to help anticipate, plan for, and respond to the needs of at-risk citizens in potentially impacted areas.
Preparing for Impacts to Infrastructure
The Department of Transportation is deploying a Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Air Traffic Field Incident Response (FIR) team to Florida and pre-staging operations in Jacksonville to prepare support for any impacted towers and airports. The team will work with the state and local authorities and the Department of Defense within the established Emergency Operations Center. The Department of Transportation is also deploying the FAA Communication Support Team (CST), which plays a critical role in supporting communication restoration at impacted airports. Specifically, the CST will set up Starlink and Mobile Phone Bonding kits, which increase signal stability and data throughout the region. The FAA is placing aircraft on standby to transport personnel from various agencies, mobilize resources, and support damage assessments to infrastructure.
In addition, similar to the approach on Hurricane Helene, the FAA will continue to closely coordinate with the Department of Defense, the Armed Services, including Active Duty and National Guard units, and State Emergency Operations Centers to support their use of drones to support response and recovery. Drones can play a critical role in supporting search and rescue operations and damage assessments by providing real time video, imagery, and sensor capabilities in hard-to-reach places. The Department of Transportation’s Federal Highway Administration is coordinating with the Florida Department of Transportation and monitoring the situation to be prepared to support.
The Environmental Protection Agency is working closely with Federal, state, local, and Tribal partners to support water systems, prepare for debris management, and ensure facilities, including Superfund sites, maintain critical public health and environmental protections while they recover from Hurricane Helene and prepare for Hurricane Milton. The agency has personnel on the ground in regional and national operations centers who are continuing to respond to Hurricane Helene and are preparing to offer support, guidance, and assistance to the State of Florida and everyone in the new storm’s path.
Additional Pre-Landfall Preparations
The Department of the Interior’s U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) is deploying wave sensors at eight locations in Florida between Naples and Crystal River to measure the coastal waves caused by the storm. USGS Field crews are also installing one rapid-deployment gauge on the Sunshine Skyway bridge in St. Petersburg, Florida. This specialized piece of equipment is a fully-functional streamgage designed to be deployed quickly and temporarily to measure and transmit real-time water level data in emergency situations. This data can be used by decision makers and emergency managers to monitor water levels as they work to save lives and property.
The Department of Energy’s Energy Response Organization remains activated to respond to storm impacts. Via the Electricity Sub-Sector Coordinating Council and Oil and Natural Gas Sub-Sector Coordinating Council, the Department of Energy has been coordinating continuously with energy sector partners on both the ongoing Hurricane Helene response and potential impacts from Hurricane Milton.
The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) has notified local public housing authorities and owners of its assisted multifamily and heath care properties within the State of Florida to immediately implement all appropriate safety protocols for residents and workers. HUD is committed to ensuring that residents of its assisted homes and properties receive critical information that can save lives during extreme weather events. HUD is also conducting outreach and communications on the programmatic flexibilities and waivers that can be utilized to assist communities and survivors.
The Export-Import Bank of the United States (EXIM) announced it is extending measures to assist customers, U.S. exporters, and financial institutions impacted by Hurricane Helene and forecasted to be impacted by Hurricane Milton. EXIM is offering assistance to allow businesses and financial institutions that participate in EXIM’s programs to return to their business concerns when appropriate and without penalty due to missed deadlines or other timeliness issues.

MIL OSI USA News –

January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI Global: Hysterectomy is more common, and occurs at younger ages, for women with less education

Source: The Conversation – Canada – By Erin A. Brennand, Gynecologist & Associate Professor, University of Calgary

Nearly one in three Canadian women over age 60 has had their uterus removed. (Shutterstock)

Hysterectomy is one of the most common inpatient surgeries. Currently, nearly one in three Canadian women aged 60 and older have had their uterus removed.

While this rate is falling, mainly due to greater use of non-surgical treatments for many gynecological conditions, hysterectomy appears to be normalized in Canada. Many women and some physicians view hysterectomy as a routine part of aging or natural step after childbearing.

This cultural acceptance is a problem because, in the long term, hysterectomy appears to be associated with an increased risk of heart problems and other chronic illnesses.

In Canada, approximately 35,000 hysterectomies are performed annually. The majority are for non-cancerous conditions such as abnormal uterine bleeding, fibroid growths, and pelvic organ prolapse.

In Alberta, the rate of hysterectomy is more than 20 per cent higher than the national rate (328 versus 269 per 100,000 adult women), and Canadian Institute for Health Information (CIHI) data shows the province has had a comparatively higher rate since 2010.

Hysterectomy and education

Within our team of medical professionals and health researchers, we know hysterectomy can have long-term health consequences and that it is overused in certain patient populations. Our research focuses on female reproductive health across the lifespan, with an overarching vision to make the future of women’s health a priority. We want to understand who is most at risk for poor health outcomes and identify strategies to reduce avoidable harm.

In a recent study, we investigated whether women with lower levels of education were more likely to have a hysterectomy, and at what ages.

We analyzed data from Alberta’s Tomorrow Project, a large, long-term study tracking health and chronic illness in Albertans. We studied almost 35,000 women over a 15-year period. The findings were stark: 29.7 per cent of women with a high school diploma or less had a hysterectomy, compared to 14.7 per cent with a university degree.

After we accounted for several social and medical factors, it appeared that women with a high school education were roughly 1.7 times as likely to have a hysterectomy than those with a university education. Even women with a college degree were approximately 1.6 times as likely to have a hysterectomy than those who were university educated.

We also found that less education meant women were more likely to have surgery at a younger age, and before menopause. This timing is important because when performed before natural menopause, hysterectomy appears to increase the risk of cardiovascular disease, osteoporosis and earlier onset of menopause symptoms.

Social disparities

Our findings raise important questions about social disparities in Canadian medical care. We know that women with lower levels of education often face economic challenges that can limit access to alternative treatments.

For example, if employment does not provide extended health benefits to cover the costs of medical management, women may view surgery — which is covered by Canada’s universal health-care system — as their only viable option. Moreover, they may have less access to health-care providers who are familiar with newer, non-surgical treatments, or who are willing to offer them.

Women with precarious employment or multiple roles at work and home may not be able to cope with unpredictable symptoms, such as unpredictable uterine bleeding, leading them to choose a more definitive treatment earlier.

Our research also questions whether health-care providers may be more likely to recommend surgery to women with less education, possibly due to biases or assumptions about women’s ability to afford or manage non-surgical treatments.

It is also possible that women with less education may have lower health literacy, affecting their ability to make informed decisions, or to participate in shared decision-making. Being less likely to question a doctor’s recommendations or seek second opinions could lead to a higher likelihood of surgery.

It is evident that despite medical advances reducing the need for hysterectomy, there are significant variations in its use across different groups of women. This suggests some surgeries are not driven by medical necessity and may be avoidable. Our study adds to growing evidence calling for greater attention to the social determinants of female reproductive health. We expect it will require multiple approaches to address these disparities.

To begin with, it is essential to improve information about, and access to, non-surgical treatments for all women, including tailoring this as needed for those with less education. One potential area of improvement is Canada’s recent commitment to federal coverage for birth control, since this can provide excellent treatment for conditions such as heavy uterine bleeding.

Investment in pelvic floor physiotherapy is also necessary to ensure non-surgical treatment for pelvic organ prolapse is available to everyone.

Secondly, there is an urgent need for increasing awareness among health-care providers about the importance of shared decision-making and addressing unconscious bias.

Lastly, interventions to improve health literacy among women with lower education levels are critical to enable patients to be more active participants in their health-care decisions. It could also reduce the likelihood of experiencing a potentially avoidable hysterectomy and subsequent long-term health issues.

The authors do not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and have disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

– ref. Hysterectomy is more common, and occurs at younger ages, for women with less education – https://theconversation.com/hysterectomy-is-more-common-and-occurs-at-younger-ages-for-women-with-less-education-237937

MIL OSI – Global Reports –

January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI Global: Is sustainable development possible? Only if we take a unified approach

Source: The Conversation – Canada – By Davide Elmo, Professor, Keevil Institute of Mining Engineering, University of British Columbia

With this year’s annual United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change Conference of the Parties (COP29) summit set to take place in a little over a month in Azerbaijan, the world’s attention once again turns to climate change, resource security and the goals of sustainable development.

The aims of sustainable development are to build a system that meets the needs of society without compromising the ability of future generations to fulfil their own. The UN adopted 17 sustainable development goals in 2015 and real progress has been made in advancing some of them. But can true sustainable development be achieved, and how might it work in practice?

I am an engineer with experience in mining and geotechnics. To help answer these questions, I have been researching the interplay between sustainability challenges in the natural resource sector, the evolving concept of the circular economy and the implications of economic models founded upon sustained growth.

Read more:
Mining the depths: Norway’s deep-sea exploitation could put it in environmental and legal murky waters

Striking a balance between resource extraction and environmental sustainability is essential for the continued existence of human societies and the risks of biodiversity loss must be accounted for in all resource extraction activities. At the same time, the need to protect the rights of all people — including Indigenous rights — remains paramount.

To help better understand the nuances of sustainable development, in my forthcoming research I propose a model of the impact(s) of human activities on the Earth’s planetary boundaries, which I refer to as the (un)sustainable machine.

Sustainable mining requires looking at the practices required to ensure long-term economic development remains in equilibrium with environmental and social considerations. The (un)sustainable machine model describes the delicate balancing acts at play, highlighting the intricate relationship between what drives minerals demand and consumption and how these forces impact Earth’s planetary boundary.

(Un)sustainable development

While progress may be being made in some areas of sustainable development — particularly around areas of poverty and malnutrition — as a planetary system, the report is much less positive. Take, for example, the issue of recycling.

Can recycling keep up with increased demand and counter resource extraction? Over 3.3 billion tonnes of metals are produced globally each year, and most demand predictions show rising consumption of metals in the coming decades.

Models developed by the World Bank indicate that by 2050, secondary supply (recycling) for aluminum, copper and nickel could meet about 60 per cent of the demand. Despite the enthusiasm among researchers and economists, however, these long-term projections indicate the difficulty of transitioning to a circular economy. Indeed, these predictions show that a 40 per cent unmatched demand must continue being supplied by primary sources like mining.

Read more:
Slow mining could be a solution to overconsumption in an increasingly fast-paced world

In my model, recycling is represented as a set of springs resisting the extraction of additional mineral resources. To achieve 100 per cent recycling of the entire spectrum of the mineral resources, our economy needs to solve problems that are not achievable with today’s technology. Furthermore, when developed on an industrial scale, recycling plants raise some of the same environmental challenges of large mineral processing and smelting plants.

Amidst this backdrop, the circular economy has presented itself as a transformative solution predicated on keeping products and materials in use, and regenerating natural systems. It challenges the linear extract-produce-dispose approach and questions the sustainability of perpetual economic growth, especially in a world with finite resources and known environmental constraints. Analogous to the (un)sustainable machine model, I also propose the model of the (un)sustainable cone of demand and consumption.

The (un)sustainable cone model highlights the discrepancy between an economic concept based on the idea of a closed-loop system (circular economy) and the current financial framework based on the idea that infinite growth is possible. The larger the unbalanced cross-sectional area of the (un)sustainable cone of demand and consumption, the larger the stresses imposed upon Earth’s planetary boundaries.

A different path?

To remain within Earth’s planetary boundaries requires solutions beyond simple technical means. Actions by a few individuals are not sufficient. As engineers, we often believe it is possible to develop solutions to mitigate the anthropogenic impacts on Earth’s planetary boundaries. However, by doing so, we fail to realize that finite barriers to growth remain and that our engineering solutions may in time become part of the problem.

Read more:
GDP is not enough to measure a country’s development. What if we used the Sustainable Development Goals instead?

It is essential for individuals who are not economists or environmental scientists to think about the meaning of sustainability in the context of extracting mineral resources. At the same time, economists and social-environmental scientists need to recognize that when it comes to mineral resources, policies and permitting regulations should not be addressed separately from the technical and economic aspects of mining engineering problems.

To paraphrase the work of eminent American social scientist Garrett Hardin:

Therein is the tragedy. Each financial market is locked into a system that compels it to increase its value without limit – in a world with finite resources. Earth’s ruin is the destination toward which all companies rush, each pursuing its own best interest in a market that (only) believes in the benefits of the shareholders.

Simply put, while both policy and technology are necessary to achieve true sustainability, unless our efforts are unified across discipline and economies, there is little hope for staying within the finite bounds of what our planet can provide.

Davide Elmo receives funding from NSERC (Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada) and MITACS

– ref. Is sustainable development possible? Only if we take a unified approach – https://theconversation.com/is-sustainable-development-possible-only-if-we-take-a-unified-approach-237438

MIL OSI – Global Reports –

January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI Economics: IMF Staff Completes 2024 Article IV Mission to Timor-Leste
Source: International Monetary Fund

October 8, 2024

End-of-Mission press releases include statements of IMF staff teams that convey preliminary findings after a visit to a country. The views expressed in this statement are those of the IMF staff and do not necessarily represent the views of the IMF’s Executive Board. Based on the preliminary findings of this mission, staff will prepare a report that, subject to management approval, will be presented to the IMF’s Executive Board for discussion and decision.
- Timor-Leste’s growth is expected to rise in 2024, supported by an increase in public spending and strong credit growth. From a high level in 2023, inflation has fallen sharply and is projected to continue easing with the moderation of global food prices.
- A key policy priority is ensuring that Timor-Leste’s substantial savings are best utilized to support development while achieving fiscal sustainability. Improving the composition and quality of public spending would boost growth, while containing overall spending is needed to preserve fiscal sustainability.
- Promoting private sector development requires well-sequenced structural reforms, and the authorities are rightly prioritizing an ambitious agenda of legal reforms of the financial sector.
Washington, DC: An International Monetary Fund (IMF) team led by Mr. Yan Carrière-Swallow visited Dili during September 25-October 8 to conduct discussions for the 2024 Article IV consultation with Timor-Leste. At the conclusion of the discussions, Mr. Carrière-Swallow issued the following statement:

“Timor-Leste has made impressive progress since its independence. Yet, the economy remains under-diversified and highly dependent on the public sector. The IMF stands ready to continue providing capacity development to assist the government’s development and reform efforts.

“Growth is expected to rise in 2024, supported by an increase in public spending and strong credit growth, and will maintain its momentum in 2025. From a high level in 2023, inflation has fallen sharply and is projected to continue easing with the moderation of global food prices. Risks to the outlook are balanced.

“The draft 2025 budget contains an appropriate increase in spending on capital projects, health, and education, but also an excessive increase in recurrent spending. Large fiscal deficits are expected to persist as spending remains high, requiring excess withdrawals from the Petroleum Fund that will lead to its full depletion by the end of the 2030s. We recommend a 10-year reform scenario that supports economic diversification through structural reforms and gradually reduces fiscal deficits to stabilize the Petroleum Fund.

“We welcome the government’s ambitious financial sector reform agenda to address structural impediments to lending, which is essential for private sector development. We recommend accelerating the issuance of land titles, which would offer a crucial source of collateral to households and businesses seeking credit from banks.

“The team had fruitful discussions with Prime Minister Kay Rala Xanana Gusmão, Minister of Finance Santina Cardoso, Central Bank Governor Hélder Lopes, other senior officials, development partners, the private sector, and civil society. On behalf of the IMF team, I would like to thank the Timorese authorities for their hospitality and excellent cooperation.”

IMF Communications Department

MEDIA RELATIONS

PRESS OFFICER: Pemba Sherpa

Phone: +1 202 623-7100Email: MEDIA@IMF.org

@IMFSpokesperson
MIL OSI Economics –
January 23, 2025

MIL-OSI: Canoe EIT Income Fund Announces 2024 Voluntary Cash Redemption

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

CALGARY, Alberta, Oct. 08, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Canoe EIT Income Fund (“Canoe” or the “Fund”)(TSX – EIT.UN) today announced the 2024 voluntary cash redemption.

Voluntary Annual Cash Redemption

The redemption date for the Fund’s annual voluntary cash redemption will be December 6, 2024. Unitholders are entitled to redeem units of the Fund at a price equal to 95% of the Average Net Asset Value (NAV) of the three trading days preceding the December 6, 2024 redemption date, less direct costs. Direct costs are expected to be less than 1%. If all redemption requests exceed 10% of the aggregate outstanding units of the Fund on November 15, 2024, the final day to submit units for redemption, the Fund will process redemptions to this maximum on a pro-rata basis based on the total number of units tendered. Payment for units that have been tendered and accepted for redemption will be made on or before December 31, 2024.

Unitholders wishing to redeem their units must provide notice of their intent to do so with their investment advisor or brokerage office no later than November 15, 2024. Please note that investment firms may impose an earlier deadline in order to facilitate the processing of redemption requests. Unitholders are strongly urged to consult their investment advisor or brokerage office directly to confirm their internal deadlines. Registered unitholders (those who hold a physical share certificate in their name) should contact the Fund’s transfer agent, Alliance Trust Company, at 1-877-537-6111 to redeem their units. Units that have been submitted for redemption will remain eligible for the October 2024 and November 2024 distributions, which are paid in November 2024 and December 2024, respectively.

Please note that any redemption requests made by non-resident unitholders may be subject to withholding tax.

Key Dates

October 8 – November 15, 2024	Unitholders may tender units for redemption
December 3,4,5 2024	Redemption price determined based on Average NAV of these trading days
December 6, 2024	Redemption date
December 31, 2024	Payment of redemption proceeds on or before this date

About Canoe EIT Income Fund

Canoe EIT Income Fund is one of Canada’s largest closed-end investment funds, designed to maximize monthly distributions and capital appreciation by investing in a broadly diversified portfolio of high quality securities. The Fund is listed on the TSX under the symbol EIT.UN, and is actively managed by Robert Taylor, Senior Vice President and Chief Investment Officer, Canoe Financial.

About Canoe Financial

Canoe Financial is one of Canada’s fastest growing independent mutual fund companies managing approximately $18.0 billion in assets across a diversified range of award-winning investment solutions. Founded in 2008, Canoe Financial is an employee-owned investment management firm focused on building financial wealth for Canadians. Canoe Financial has a significant presence across Canada, including offices in Calgary, Toronto and Montreal.

Contact
Investor Relations
1–877–434–2796
info@canoefinancial.com

Not for Distribution to U.S. Newswire Services or for Dissemination in the United States of America.

The Fund makes monthly distributions of an amount comprised in whole or in part of Return of Capital (ROC) of the net asset value per unit. A ROC reduces the amount of your original investment and may result in the return to you of the entire amount of your original investment. ROC that is not reinvested will reduce the net asset value of the fund, which could reduce the fund’s ability to generate future income. You should not draw any conclusions about the Fund’s investment performance from the amount of this distribution. Commissions, trailing commissions, management fees and expenses all may be associated with investment funds. Please read the information filed about the Fund on http://www.sedar.com before investing. Investment funds are not guaranteed and past performance may not be repeated. This communication is not to be construed as a public offering to sell, or a solicitation of an offer to buy securities. Such an offer can only be made by way of a prospectus or other applicable offering document and should be read carefully before making any investment. This release is for information purposes only. Investors should consult their Investment Advisor for details and risk factors regarding specific strategies and various investment products.

The MIL Network –

January 23, 2025

MIL-OSI Economics: IMF Reaches Staff-Level Agreement with Papua New Guinea on a Resilience and Sustainability Facility (RSF) Arrangement and the Third Reviews Under the Extended Credit Facility and the Extended Fund Facility
Source: International Monetary Fund

October 8, 2024

End-of-Mission press releases include statements of IMF staff teams that convey preliminary findings after a visit to a country or a virtual staff visit. The views expressed in this statement are those of the IMF staff and do not necessarily represent the views of the IMF’s Executive Board. Based on the preliminary findings of this mission, staff will prepare a report that, subject to management approval, will be presented to the IMF’s Executive Board for discussion and decision.
- The Papua New Guinea authorities and the IMF team reached staff-level agreement on the request for access under the Resilience and Sustainability Facility (RSF) for about US$265 million to enhance resilience to climate change. The IMF Executive Board will consider the request in the coming weeks.
- The authorities and the IMF team also reached staff-level agreement on the third reviews of the authorities’ reform program supported by the IMF’s Extended Credit Facility and the Extended Fund Facility.
- Papua New Guinea’s outlook remains positive, with economic growth increasing to 4.5 percent in 2024, and the authorities continue to make progress in implementing their homegrown economic reform program.
Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea: An International Monetary Fund (IMF) team led by Mr. Tahsin Saadi Sedik, visited Port Moresby from September 26 to October 9, 2024, to review progress under the authorities’ homegrown economic reforms supported by the Extended Credit Facility (ECF) and Extended Fund Facility (EFF) arrangements of SDR684.3 million (about US$918 million), and to discuss the authorities’ request for access to the Resilience and Sustainability Facility (RSF).

At the conclusion of the mission, Mr. Saadi Sedik issued the following statement:

“I am pleased to announce that IMF staff and the Papua New Guinea (PNG) authorities have reached a staff-level agreement on (i) the policies needed to complete the third reviews of the ECF and EFF arrangements; and (ii) a new 24-month RSF arrangement with access of SDR197.4 million (about US$265 million), which will run in parallel to the ECF-EFF arrangements, to support the authorities’ policy agenda aimed at enhancing resilience to climate change.

“To enhance PNG’s capacity to address challenges posed by climate change and reinforce its resilience, the proposed RSF arrangement, subject to approval by the IMF Executive Board, would help build policy buffers and contribute to enhancing the effective implementation of PNG’s climate commitments. PNG would become the first Pacific Island country to benefit from RSF support. Building on these commitments, reforms under the proposed RSF arrangement will focus on strengthening disaster risk management capacity, supporting the inclusion of climate considerations in public investment decisions, encouraging the development of green finance, and enhancing mitigation policies. These reforms, which will be supported by capacity development activities from PNG’s international partners, are expected to catalyze financing for climate and sustainable development.

“The completion of the third reviews of the ECF-EFF, upon approval by the Executive Board of the IMF, would allow for the immediate disbursement of SDR94.75 million (approximately US$127 million) in financing, bringing the total IMF financial support disbursed thus far under the ECF-EFF arrangements to SDR321.12 million (about US$430 million). Adding the new RSF support, the total IMF commitment under all these arrangements would be SDR881.72 million (about US$1.19 billion).

“Papua New Guinea’s economic outlook remains positive. Growth is expected to increase to 4.5 percent in 2024 from 2.9 percent in 2023, supported by the resumption of activities at the Porgera gold mine and improvements in access to foreign exchange. Average headline inflation is projected to remain historically low at 1.3 percent in 2024, while core inflation, which excludes volatile items such as betel nut, is projected to moderately increase to 3.9 percent in 2024, while staying below the historical average, mainly driven by food and transportation costs. Gross international reserves stood at US$3.2 billion at end-June 2024, providing space to continue implementing central banking reforms.

“Performance since the start of the ECF-EFF arrangements has been strong. The government of PNG has continued to make progress in implementing its structural reform agenda, focused on advancing budget repair, modernizing central banking, and improving governance. These reforms are bearing fruit, with notable positive outcomes including: (i) the easing of foreign exchange shortages, which contributes to improving the business environment; (ii) the reduction of excess liquidity in the banking sector, which enhances monetary policy transmission; (iii) a lower fiscal deficit, which strengthens public debt sustainability; and (iv) progress in the operationalization of the anti-corruption framework.

“The government remains committed to an ambitious fiscal consolidation strategy set out in its 13-year budget repair plan. After reducing the fiscal deficit by 0.9 percentage points of GDP in 2023, while creating space for more social spending, the authorities are on track to deliver an additional 0.4 percentage points of GDP reduction in 2024. The authorities remain committed to implementing their prudent borrowing strategy aimed at preserving debt sustainability.

“The Bank of Papua New Guinea (BPNG) has continued to actively implement its roadmap of reforms to help alleviate foreign exchange shortages, gradually return to kina convertibility, and modernize its monetary policy operations. The increased flexibility of the exchange rate under the de facto crawl-like arrangement, combined with the BPNG’s foreign exchange intervention strategy, has supported improved access to foreign exchange, particularly for essential import orders. The reduction of the structural misalignment of the kina will help enhance the competitiveness of PNG’s exports, including in the agricultural sector, and thus increase rural incomes and improve living standards. The BPNG continues monitoring developments in domestic financial markets and stands ready to calibrate its policy stance accordingly. The BPNG is also modernizing its monetary policy operations, enabling commercial banks to improve their liquidity management. Amendments to the Central Banking Act, adopted in September by Parliament, have significantly improved the mandate, governance, and autonomy of the BPNG.

“The governance and anti-corruption frameworks are being strengthened. The Independent Commission Against Corruption (ICAC), benefiting from a significant increase in funding, has successfully defined its operational procedures and set up more secure information systems.

“The IMF will continue to work closely with the Papua New Guinea authorities and stands ready to help them, not only through financing and policy advice, but also through technical assistance.

“The IMF staff team is grateful to the authorities for their warm hospitality, productive collaboration, and candid policy dialogue. The IMF team held meetings with Minister for Treasury Ian Ling-Stuckey, Governor of BPNG Elizabeth Genia, Secretary of Treasury Andrew Oaeke, and other senior government officials. The team also had constructive meetings with representatives from the private sector and development partners.”

IMF Communications Department

MEDIA RELATIONS

PRESS OFFICER: Randa Elnagar

Phone: +1 202 623-7100Email: MEDIA@IMF.org

@IMFSpokesperson
MIL OSI Economics –
January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Giving Back in Hartford

Source: US State of Connecticut

On Saturday, October 5 the interprofessional health students of the Urban Service Track/AHEC Scholars training program at UConn Health contributed once again to the longstanding Ollie M. Williams (OMW) Health and Wellness Fair at Thirman Miller Middle School in Hartford.

This is the 14th consecutive-year UConn Health students have supported the annual community event attended by hundreds of community members.

The UConn Health students helped administer free health care and screenings such as administering the pneumococcal vaccine, provided oral, blood pressure, and blood glucose checks, and health education about asthma triggers, oral hygiene, and the benefits of good nutrition and an active life style.

Preceptors overseeing the student care from UConn Health included: Dr. Victoria Massey, Dr. Nancy Wong, Dr. Kiran Lorick, Dr. Gary Rhule, and Dr. Bruce Gould.

“This event is an example of the value our strong academic-community partnership has in promoting better health for all of Connecticut’s citizens,” said Petra Clark-Dufner, director of CT AHEC. “No partnership better amplifies the power and strength of the unique academic-community partnership than the one with the Ollie M. Williams Community Organization.”

CT AHEC-based at UConn Health annually works with hundreds of partners statewide to address health disparities and promote better health outcomes for the state’s citizens.

“The amount of services and resources provided at Thirman Miller Middle School was amazing,” said Clark-Dufner. “The focus of partners working in collaboration to provide early detection and prevention screenings was a beautiful thing to see.”

MIL OSI USA News –

January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Derek Tran reverses himself, claims he’s fluent in Vietnamese again

Source: US National Republican Congressional Committee

The following text contains opinion that is not, or not necessarily, that of MIL-OSI –

October 8, 2024

After claiming he fluently speaks Vietnamese, then admitting he’s not, yesterday Derek Tran reversed himself again to claim once again he’s fluent in Vietnamese.

HOST: “You’ve touted yourself as the ‘only candidate who speaks fluent Vietnamese’ in a district than includes Orange County’s Little Saigon, but after you struggled to answer some basic questions in Vietnamese and questions were raised in the press, you admitted that you speak ‘broken Vietnamese.’ Why did you claim to be fluent when you’re not?”

TRAN: “Look, Frank, at the end of the day, I believe that I am fluent in Vietnamese.”

“This guy lies about EVERYTHING. One day he’s fluent, the next he’s not, and now he’s fluent again — it’s clear Derek Tran will say anything to get elected, even if it means lying to voters’ faces.” – NRCC Spokesperson Ben Petersen

MIL OSI USA News –

January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Tissue Chips Accurately Model Organs in Space

Source: NASA

The International Space Station offers a unique microgravity environment where cells outside the human body behave similarly to how they do inside the human body. Tissue chips are small devices containing living cells that mimic complex functions of specific human tissues and organs. Researchers can run experiments using tissue chips aboard space station to understand disease progression and provide faster and safer alternatives for preparing medicine for clinical trials.
Researchers placed engineered heart tissues on tissue chips sent to study how microgravity impacts cardiac functions in space. Data collected by the chips showed these heart tissues experienced impaired contractions, subcellular structural changes, and increased stress, which can lead to tissue damage and disease. Previous studies conducted on human subjects have displayed similar outcomes. In the future, engineered heart tissues could accurately model the effects of spaceflight on cardiac function.
Another investigation used muscle-on-a-chip technology to evaluate whether engineered muscle tissues can mimic the characteristics of reduced muscle regeneration in microgravity. Researchers found that engineered muscle-on-a-chip platforms are viable for studying muscle-related bioprocesses in space. In addition, samples treated with drugs known to stimulate muscle regeneration showed partial prevention of the effects of microgravity. These results demonstrate that muscle-on-chip can also be used to study and identify drugs that may prevent muscle decline in space and age-related muscle decline on Earth.

MIL OSI USA News –

January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI New Zealand: New report shows improvements in air quality
Source: New Zealand Government

The latest report from the Ministry for the Environment (MfE) and Stats NZ, Our air 2024, reveals that overall air quality in New Zealand is improving, Environment Minister Penny Simmonds and Statistics Minister Andrew Bayly say.

“Air pollution levels have decreased in many parts of the country. New Zealand is making measurable progress towards achieving the Government’s air quality targets,” Ms Simmonds says.

“While there is still work to be done, the overall trend is positive. We are committed to continuing this progress to enhance the wellbeing of our communities.”

The independent report, released as part of a regular three-yearly review, brings together recently updated Stats NZ indicator data, as well as insights from research literature.

The six refreshed air quality indicators, released by Stats NZ in September, reveal that pollutant concentrations decreased at most monitoring sites between 2016 and 2023. In some areas where air quality has improved, the data shows that pollutant levels still occasionally exceed the World Health Organization’s recommended guidelines.

“The report shows that human activities, as well as environmental factors, such as temperature and winds, can impact air quality in some areas at certain times,” Ms Simmonds says.

Key pollutants include fine particulate matter (PM2.5) and nitrogen dioxide (NO2), which have significant health effects. Burning wood for home heating is a major source of PM2.5, while the main source of NO2 is motor vehicles. Breathing these pollutants can cause a range of health issues.

“Continued action to improve air quality is needed. These findings will help shape future decisions on air quality management, ensuring cleaner air for all New Zealanders” Ms Simmonds says.

Mr Bayly emphasised the importance of the robust data gathering processes.

“Our air 2024 is supported by independent experts, based on environmental data that have been quality assured and analysed. Access to high-quality data like this is crucial for informing targeted policy decisions that will enable us to meet our environmental targets,” Mr Bayly says.

“The report provides important evidence which helps broaden our environmental data reporting system.”

New Zealanders are encouraged to read and engage with the findings of Our air 2024 to gain a deeper understanding of the relationship between human activities, natural pressures, air quality and health.

Further information:
- Review Stats NZ’s updated air quality indicators here
- Read Our Air 2024 here
MIL OSI New Zealand News –
January 23, 2025

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